WASHINGTON, June 19, 2013 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking nominations for peanut producer and processing organization candidates to serve on the Peanut Standards Board (Board). Nominations are due by July 22, 2013.

The Board consists of 18 members with representation equally divided between peanut producers and industry representatives. Representation is divided among three regions: the Southeast (Alabama, Georgia, and Florida), the Southwest (Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico), and Virginia/North Carolina. Each region has three producer seats and three industry representative seats with staggered terms.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will appoint one producer and one industry representative from each region to succeed members whose terms expire June 30, 2013. The six new members will serve terms ending June 30, 2016. One additional industry member from the Southwest Region will be appointed to serve the remainder of a term expiring June 30, 2015.

USDA encourages membership that reflects the diversity of the individuals served by the Board. All eligible women, minorities and persons with disabilities are invited to seek nomination for a seat on the Peanut Standards Board.

The 2002 Farm Bill established the Board to provide consultation to USDA regarding quality and handling standards for domestically produced and imported peanuts. The Board plays a key role in representing the U.S. peanut industry on issues affecting safety and marketability.